Renewable Energy Percentage UK

How has the percentage of fossil fuels changed over time?

Over the last 10 years the percentage of the UKs energy from fossil fuels has reduced from 49.9% in 2016 to 26.1% in 2025.

What are the UK climate change targets?

In the Climate Change Act 2008 the UK is committed by law to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to zero by 2050.  To help meet this target the UK government has set a target to decarbonise the electricity system by 2035. 

In their March 2023 report, the Climate Change Committee (CCC) said that a decarbonised power grid is achievable but not at the current pace of change. For Renewables to play their part there’s the need for a big increase in capacity - particularly wind and solar, backed up by battery storage.

What changes in renewable energy are needed to decarbonise the UK energy system? 

In the British Energy Security Strategy paper published in April 2022, the government touched upon the key targets for decarbonising the electricity system by 2035. It plans to increase wind energy capacity from 11GW to 50GW by 2030 and solar energy capacity from 14GW to 70GW by 2035.

The transition towards a lower-carbon economy extends beyond electricity generation. Across the construction sector, there is growing demand for durable building materials that require less maintenance and offer long service lives. Products such as composite decking, composite cladding and other external building solutions are increasingly being specified for residential and commercial projects looking to improve long-term sustainability.

We’ve learned about the strides the UK is making in renewable energy. Over the last decade, the UK has seen significant  growth in renewable energy, whilst reducing its reliance on fossil fuels. Progress is being made but the Climate Change Committee have stated the need for a further, big increase in renewable energy capacity if the 2035 target to decarbonise the electricity system is to be met.